Introduction

Jaisalmer is amongst the last of the former princely kingdoms of Rajputana
before the border between India and Pakistan. The people of Jaisalmer
believe Lord Krishna prophecied to Arjuna that one of his descendants
would establish a kingdom on Trikuta Hill. The Lord’s prophecy was
fulfilled in 1196 AD when Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput who traced his
lineage to Krisnna’s Yadava clan, shifted his capital from Lodurva (16
km away) to Trikuta Hill. Jaisalmer’s past glories can be seen in its
impressive golden fort on Trikuta Hill that dominates the horizon.
Jaisalmer, the city of the golden fort is a fantasy in yellow sandstone
in the heart of the Thar Desert. Rawla Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput King,
founded the city in the year 1156 A.D.Perched atop the Trikuta Hill, it
stands tall against miles of gleaming sand. The sunset has a peculiar
glow here. As the night descends, the sky goes up in flames, which fade
leaving a few embers, till it becomes black. A breathtaking sight
indeed! Every house, here, is exquisitely carved, having filigreed work
all over. These houses date back to 12th – 15th century. And hence
Jaisalmer is called ’the Museum city’.